1. Wear thorn-resistant gloves like "mud gloves" that are washable, and made of cloth covered with textured rubber. Mud gloves should cost around $10; there are many choices of tougher and more thorn resistant (and more expensive) gloves, such as elbow-length "gauntlet gloves", which should be available at good quality garden stores.

2. It's a good idea if you'll be doing a lot of gardening to be sure that tetanus shots are current - you will find yourself (joyously!) playing in dirt and may occasionally suffer a prick. Be aware that there are metal burrs at the bottom edge of fence.3. Disenfect shears and lopers with hydrogen peroxide or diluted bleach to avoid spread of disease from plant to plant.